Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have reinforced security in Logo and Ukum Local Government Areas of Benue State, providing protection for farmers and foiling a market robbery that led to the recovery of arms and the neutralization of a criminal.
In a statement, Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu said on September 15, 2025, soldiers from the Ayilamo outpost responded to a distress call from Tse Anema Village, Tombo Council Ward, Logo LGA, after suspected armed herders were reported to be firing sporadically. The troops advanced rapidly, forcing the suspects to flee, and subsequently conducted aggressive patrols to restore calm in the area.
During clearance operations in nearby Azege Village, troops intercepted two suspected criminals uprooting yams from a farm. The suspects fled into the bush, but further patrols revealed another farm had been ravaged by cattle. Soldiers maintained presence in the area to prevent further destruction and assure farmers of safety while working on their land.
In a separate incident the same day, troops of the Defence Special Operations Force (DSOF) deployed at Afia Market, Ukum LGA, acted on intelligence of an armed robbery targeting traders. On arrival, the troops engaged the criminals, killing one and recovering an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The Force Commander, OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the soldiers for their swift and professional response. He emphasized the importance of recovering weapons during every encounter with armed groups to prevent their future use against civilians.
He also reaffirmed that Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States remain under OPWS operational responsibility, stressing that the task force will continue to ensure the safety of residents and farmers in the region.
